Backbone Horse Campground provides specialized camping facilities for equestrian travelers in the Finger Lakes National Forest. The campground operates with a self-registration system that now includes a $10 fee, which has reduced usage and made site availability more common even during peak periods. Vault toilets are available but campers must bring their own water for both personal use and for horses. The campground layout includes multiple spacious primitive sites specifically designed to accommodate horse trailers and associated equipment.
What to do
Trail riding from camp: Backbone Horse Campground connects directly to an extensive network of bridle trails throughout the Finger Lakes region. "Large camp sites have room for all your horses and horse paraphernalia. Call Finger Lakes National Forest to make sure trails aren't closed due to weather, spring melt, etc," suggests Harry H. from Backbone Horse Campground.
Pennsylvania Grand Canyon exploration: Located within driving distance of equestrian camping near Columbia Cross Roads, Pennsylvania, this natural wonder offers spectacular views and recreational opportunities. "We visited the PA grand canyon while we were there as well as the Flight 93 National Memorial in Shanksville, pa," notes Jean T. from Stony Fork Creek Campground.
Stargazing: The dark skies in the national forest create ideal conditions for night sky viewing. "Perfect quiet spot to star gaze and listen to the wildlife. We had perfect weather and it was a spectacular night," writes Ian A. about his stay at Backbone Horse Campground.
What campers like
Privacy and quiet: The reduced campground usage since implementation of fees has created a more secluded experience. "We had the whole place to ourselves. This is a great little campground with fairly large sites. We seen maybe three people pass through the three days/two nights we were there," reports Heather D. from Backbone Horse Campground.
Central location: Equestrian camping near Columbia Cross Roads offers convenient access to multiple recreational destinations. "You're centrally located to do and see everything from waterfalls, trails, vineyards and so on. It's primitive, but more than half the price of a state park," explains Brenley R. from Backbone Horse Campground.
Well-maintained facilities: Despite being primitive, nearby campgrounds maintain clean facilities. "The campground was exceptionally maintained, bathrooms and showers virtually spotless and the pool was clearly and consistently maintained at all times. Plenty of space to spread out and walk," notes Greg W. from Stony Fork Creek Campground.
What you should know
Campground priorities: While designed primarily for equestrians, Backbone permits non-horse campers when space allows. "We originally came down to the National Forest to stay at the Blueberry Patch Campground but it was full by noon on the Friday before Memorial Day. It was actually perfect for our small popup, but the horse riders that camp here were not pleased with us," cautions Brenley R.
Limited connectivity: Cell service is unreliable in most equestrian camping areas near Columbia Cross Roads. "No cell service and WiFi isn't reliable if that's what you need or are looking for," warns Brandon W. from Stony Fork Creek.
Weather considerations: Trail conditions can vary significantly with seasonal changes. Contact the Finger Lakes National Forest office before arrival to check current trail status, particularly during spring thaw or after heavy rainfall periods.
Tips for camping with families
Noise management: Set expectations for quiet hours at campgrounds that may have varying enforcement policies. "My only complaint is that other campers did not respect quiet hours and it took the campground staff too long to ask them to quiet down," reports Gina M. from Stony Fork Creek Campground.
Site selection: Choose campsites strategically based on proximity to facilities and noise considerations. "We had shade and woods behind us, and the ground was grassy and level. The pool was nice and the rec center had a lot of activities for kids. The pond offered fishing and pedal boat rentals," recommends MJ B. from Stony Fork Creek Campground.
Plan for water needs: No water is available at Backbone, so families must pack sufficient water for drinking, cooking, and cleaning during their stay.
Tips from RVers
Paved sites available: Some campgrounds near Columbia Cross Roads feature paved parking areas suitable for RVs. "All roads and parking pads are paved. The sites are closer together than most other COE parks where we've stayed," notes Bran P. from Tompkins Campground.
Hookup limitations: Confirm utility availability when planning an RV trip to horse campgrounds. Backbone offers no hookups while nearby alternatives provide various options. "We stayed in the Bench Loop which is very busy since it is waterfront. Our first week, we were on site 54 (W/E 50A) and waterfront. Our second week, we stayed on site 44 (FHU 50A) right across from the seldom used playground," explains Bran P.
Size considerations: RV sites vary significantly between equestrian and standard campgrounds. "We chose a location that worked best for us. The area we selected was not busy. Area is open, not offering a lot of privacy," mentions MJ B.
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